How to Handle Poor Foot Circulation

Those who are living with diabetes may be more likely to experience poor circulation in their feet. Poor circulation can lead to a number of foot complications including neuropathy and peripheral artery disease. There are, however, a few things you can do to better prevent poor circulation. Resisting smoking is a good way to reduce your likelihood of having poor circulation, since smoking makes arteries harden faster. Maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels may also assist in reducing poor circulation. It is additionally recommended to practice an exercise routine, as exercise helps to stimulate blood flow. Because poor circulation can lead to more severe foot complications, it is recommended that you consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and advice on treatment options.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Martin Sloan of Lake Pointe Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness
Numbness or cramping in the legs
Skin discoloration
Slower nail & hair growth
Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Rockwall and Abilene, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Can Obesity Worsen Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune condition that causes painful inflammation and swelling of the joints, often affects the feet and ankles, and can worsen due to obesity.

Treatments for Corns on the Feet

Corns on the feet are generally small, hardened areas of skin that can cause severe pain and discomfort. They develop as a result of excessive friction and can be caused by wearing shoes that do not fit correctly.

Plantar Warts 101

Plantar warts are small growths on the foot’s sole that grow because of the human papillomavirus (HPV). The HPV virus that usually causes plantar warts is contagious and thrives in warm moist environments.

Do I Have Flexible or Rigid Flat Feet?

Flat feet is a condition in which the arch, the curved middle part of the bottom of the foot, is absent or has collapsed. The lack of an arch causes the entire sole of the foot to make direct contact with the ground when walking or standing.

What Is Juvenile Plantar Dermatosis?

Juvenile plantar dermatosis is a condition that affects mainly pre-adolescents and causes chronic dry skin on the bottom of the feet. This condition is caused by repetitive friction on the feet from ill-fitting or covered shoes, excessive sweating,...

Diagnostic Tests for Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition that causes poor circulation in the lower limbs due to blockages in the blood vessels that supply blood to this area. There are a variety of diagnostic tests that a doctor may use to diagnose you with PAD.